AJAX turret in manned live fire testing

TheLockheed Martin UK turret, developed with General Dynamics Land Systems UK for the British Army’s AJAX vehicle, has successfully completed an initial manned live fire exercise.

The trial took place last month in west Wales, the formal qualification trials are testing the vehicles CTAI 40mm cannon and the 7.62mm chain gun.

The initial phase has tested firing from a static vehicle on a static target. The trials will continue over the coming months, progressing to fire on the move.

The manned firing will generate data to support the process of manned crew clearance, assessing the safety and suitability of the platform for use by military personnel.

Lee Fellows, programme director for AJAX at Lockheed Martin UK, said: “This is a huge milestone for us and for the AJAX programme.”

“The AJAX firings have been successful and we’re confident they will continue to be so as we progress through the trial. It’s another step towards getting this world-class capability to the British Army.” He added.

The AJAX turret has been developed and produced at Lockheed Martin UK’s state-of-the-art facility in Bedfordshire.